Warburton’s Upper Yarra dam wall works safe, State Government says

Claims lives could be at risk if the Upper Yarra dam wall bursts have been slammed as irresponsible by the State Government. This is despite a report warning of the ‘catastrophic’ impact of any breach.

Claims that the Upper Yarra Dam could burst have been slammed by Melbourne Water.

There is no threat to public safety during Upper Yarra dam wall repair works, the State Government says.

The Upper Yarra Reservoir Park will be closed to the public for two years while work to repair the dam wall is carried out.

Included in the Melbourne Water tender is a report which notes because of the size of the dam, any breach of it would be a catastrophic public safety risk as well as impacting economically and environmentally.

But Water Minister Lisa Neville said that is the worst case scenario and the repairs do not mean the dam is at risk of bursting.

“There is no risk to public safety and anyone who suggests otherwise is being incredibly irresponsible,” Ms Neville said.

A statement on the Melbourne Water website said the work will “ensure the continued integrity” of the structure.

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Water will be relocated from the reservoir while the work is carried out, meaning supply won’t be interrupted.

Minor work on the project began in March, with construction now in full swing.

The upgrade will involve excavation of a trench along the crest of the wall, backfilling the trench with a new sand filter and fencing off and closure of the works area.

People are being warned to expect increased heavy vehicle truck movements along Warburton Highway.

Vegetation removal and trimming within the area of works will also occur.

The park closure is expected to come into effect after the Queen’s Birthday holiday.

Improvements have been planned to the amenities within the campground before the park reopens in 2021.